Green Forest Assembly of God celebrates 75 years

"I can just imagine what church was like back in those days," current pastor of the church, Mark Bryant, says.

On a recent Sunday, First Assembly of God celebrated its 75th anniversary.

"It's been a tradition of this church for feeding the community," Bryant said. "I think that's why the church has been established for so long."

The original church that was off South Springfield Street in Green Forest was organized in July 1937, and the Rev. Omar Jerrel preached the first service.

Today, the church is on U.S. Highway 103 North.

"Our goal and our mission is to see families won to the Lord in this generation," Jo Anna Bryant said.

Gordon and Kate Steidly were the last charter members of the Springfield Street church where Billy Burris pastored for 23 years. Additional Sunday School rooms were constructed in 1958 when Otis Holloway was pastor.

"A lot of people have come through these doors," Bryant said. "I think this event is a great devotional and a tribute to those who had a vision for the church."

For more information about the church, call 870-438-5800.